Ever been given a bottle of port at that Christmas party you didn't want to attend? Well, I have the answer if, like me, you don't drink port straight up. Use it to make my port punch that's guaranteed to get the party started, says Shannon.
Shannon Bennett's 36 best recipes for NYE entertaining
From cocktails and canapes to main meals and desserts, Shannon Bennett has you covered for all your New Years Eve entertaining needs.
Fizzy rum and pineapple shrub
Refreshing and light, this cocktail is perfect for any celebration.
Citrus-glazed quail
Bursting with fresh citrus flavours, this recipe will be a hit at your next dinner party.
Slow-roasted brisket with aromatic spice rub
Okay, slow-roasting a dish all day might not seem normal, but these days, with great oven technology, leaving the oven on while you’re out is completely safe, and wait until you see the results, says Shannon.
Steamed scallops with pickled carrots
This simple canapé is made better by using the best scallops possible (these may need to be ordered in advance). If scallops are unavailable substitute cooked and peeled prawns.
Mini crab and mayo sandwiches
"Inspired by the days of Guillaume Brahimi’s famous ‘amuse bouche’ crab sandwiches, these pocket sandwiches remind me of an Australian summer. For a little extra decadence spread a layer of farmed sturgeon caviar over the crab before pressing together. The freshest, softest, whitest bread will make this appetiser all the more special." - Shannon Bennett
Coconut rice salad
Filled with quinoa and brown rice, this nutritious salad is easy enough to make as a side for weekend entertaining or as a standalone meal during the week.
Crisp pork belly with black bean sauce
Black bean sauce? Need we say more. This hearty and downright delicious pork dish will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Shannon Bennett's duck fat roast potatoes will change your life
There are two key secrets to great roast potatoes. First: use fresh potatoes. It doesn’t really matter which potatoes you use, as long as they’ve come from the ground in the past week. Don’t be afraid to look your greengrocer in the eye and ask him or her where they came from, and when. If they can’t answer, go elsewhere to buy your fresh produce. The second key is to use duck, goose or chicken fat, says Shannon Bennett.
Stuffed portobello mushrooms with taleggio
Halve the recipe to serve it as an entree, or serve as part of a finger food menu at your next party. However you serve them, you're bound to enjoy it.
King prawns with coriander and chilli butter
A handful of ingredients and a touch of the Shannon Bennett magic make this one quick and easy dish the family is unlikely to forget.
Hot smoked salmon and freekeh salad
Feel like a healthy meal without slaving in the kitchen all day? This super easy recipe is healthy and will impress the whole family.
Beetroot rissoles
These earthy, meat-free rissoles are great as leftovers the next day as well.
Green bean, pea, avocado and feta salad
This simple but accomplished salad will fit in with a summer theme as it's seasonal and light. Aside from your next dinner party, this salad is great served mid-week with a can of tuna when your body is crying out for light nourishment.
Murray cod balls with parsley mayonnaise
The crunchiness followed by the delicate texture and burst of flavour from the cod and lemon make these morsels addictive.